10 Movies and TV Shows Similar to Small Things Like These (2024)

Description: 'In the Name of the Father' and 'Small Things Like These' both deal with themes of injustice and the struggle for truth within the Irish context. Both films are emotionally powerful, with strong performances and a narrative that highlights the resilience of the human spirit.

Fact: The film is based on the true story of the Guildford Four. Daniel Day-Lewis received an Academy Award nomination for his role. It was directed by Jim Sheridan.

Description: 'The Magdalene Sisters' and 'Small Things Like These' both address the dark history of Ireland's religious institutions. Both films are unflinching in their portrayal of the abuse and suffering endured by their characters, while also highlighting their resilience and strength.

Fact: The film won the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival. It is based on the true stories of women who survived the Magdalene Laundries. Director Peter Mullan was inspired to make the film after seeing a documentary on the subject.

Description: Both 'The Wind That Shakes the Barley' and 'Small Things Like These' are set against the backdrop of Ireland's turbulent history. While the former focuses on the War of Independence, both films explore themes of sacrifice, loyalty, and the personal cost of political conflict.

Fact: The film won the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival. It stars Cillian Murphy in a leading role. The title is taken from a traditional Irish song.

Description: 'The Secret of Kells' and 'Small Things Like These' both celebrate Irish culture and history, albeit in different ways. Both films use visual storytelling to create a rich, immersive world, with a focus on the beauty and mystery of Ireland.

Fact: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature. It is loosely based on the creation of the Book of Kells. The animation combines traditional and digital techniques.

Description: Both 'The Banshees of Inisherin' and 'Small Things Like These' are set in Ireland and explore themes of isolation, community, and personal conflict. The films share a darkly humorous yet deeply emotional tone, with stunning cinematography that highlights the beauty and harshness of the Irish landscape.

Fact: The film reunites Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson, who previously worked together in 'In Bruges'. It received nine Academy Award nominations. The fictional island of Inisherin was filmed on Inishmore and Achill Island.

Description: Like 'Small Things Like These', 'The Quiet Girl' is a subtle, emotionally resonant film set in rural Ireland. Both films focus on quiet, introspective characters and use the Irish landscape as a powerful narrative element. The themes of family, secrecy, and emotional healing are central to both stories.

Fact: It was the first Irish-language film to be nominated for an Academy Award. The film is based on the novella 'Foster' by Claire Keegan. It was shot in County Meath and County Dublin.

Description: While 'Song of the Sea' is an animated film, it shares with 'Small Things Like These' a deep connection to Irish folklore and a melancholic, lyrical storytelling style. Both films explore themes of family, loss, and the supernatural, with a strong emotional undercurrent.

Fact: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature. It is the second film in Cartoon Saloon's 'Irish Folklore Trilogy'. The animation style is inspired by traditional Irish art.

Description: 'Calvary' and 'Small Things Like These' both tackle heavy themes of morality, guilt, and redemption within an Irish context. Both films feature strong performances and a contemplative tone, with a narrative that slowly unravels the complexities of their characters' lives and the societal issues they face.

Fact: Brendan Gleeson stars as a priest facing a moral dilemma. The film was written and directed by John Michael McDonagh. It was shot in County Sligo, Ireland.

Description: Similar to 'Small Things Like These' (2024), 'Brooklyn' is a poignant drama set in Ireland, exploring themes of identity, belonging, and personal sacrifice. Both films delve into the emotional complexities of their characters against the backdrop of Irish society, with a strong emphasis on visual storytelling and atmospheric cinematography that captures the essence of the setting.

Fact: Saoirse Ronan received an Academy Award nomination for her role in 'Brooklyn'. The film is based on the novel of the same name by Colm Tóibín. It was shot in both Ireland and Canada to replicate the 1950s setting.

Description: 'Philomena' shares with 'Small Things Like These' a deep exploration of personal and societal trauma in Ireland, particularly focusing on the impact of religious institutions. Both films are character-driven, with a strong emotional core and a narrative that balances sorrow with moments of hope and resilience.

Fact: Judi Dench was nominated for an Academy Award for her performance. The film is based on the true story of Philomena Lee. It was co-written by Steve Coogan, who also stars in the film.